Michael Toner Discusses ‘New Blueprint’ for Presidential Campaigning

Michael E. Toner, co-chair of Wiley Rein’s Election Law & Government Ethics Practice, was quoted in a May 7 USA Today article regarding President Trump’s unprecedented move to file paperwork allowing him to begin raising and spending money for his reelection campaign on January 20, 2017 – the same day he took office. Federal election laws permit President Trump to use these campaign funds to promote his own political agenda at campaign-style rallies and fundraising events, without violating rules that bar elected officials from using taxpayer money for overtly political activities, according to the article.

If the Trump campaign’s current fundraising pace continues, it could surpass the amount the Republican National Committee raised in the 2016 presidential race. Mr. Toner pointed out that this new “go-early” approach could fundamentally change how future campaigns are financed and operated. 

President Trump’s method could become “the new blueprint for presidents,” Mr. Toner said. “And you have to wonder: Does this accelerate the decision-making for the people who are thinking about challenging him?”

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